New Era: Spike Lee 1996 Collection

New Era: Spike Lee 1996 Collection

As New Era tells it, ‘fashion history’ was cemented in 1996 when the director Spike Lee phoned the brand’s CEO, Chris Koch, asking for a red Yankees cap to match his new red jacket (naturally).

Being both a passionate fan of the New York baseball team, and a notable figure already with an Academy Award nomination to his name, Koch obliged, producing the first non-navy Yankees headpiece.

The result – pre Twitter shares, Instagram likes and the rest – was huge public demand, following the hat’s appearance at three of the 1996 World Series games.

Nearly two decades later and the cap has been reproduced for the new masses, coupled with a navy version, titled the ‘Spike Lee 1996 collection’.

“When you wear that hat you’re bragging, and you’re proud of it too,” Lee announces in the Heritage line’s campaign video, available to watch here (alternatively head here to sample Spike Lee directing in action, with a 2007 clip produced for New Era).

Already available in Europe (just), at stores including Size? and New Era branches in London, Birmingham, Berlin and Paris, a global release date is set for 24th July, while the collection boasts two scarlet pieces and two navy, one of each in 100% wool and the others in 100% leather, all with the signature 1996 World Series side patch and a special silk lining bearing Spike’s signature.